Mechelen Travel Guide

Explore the cultural, natural and culinary highlights of Mechelen with our comprehensive tour guide. Plan your itinerary and make the most of your visit to this charming Belgian city.


Introduction to Mechelen

Nestled in the province of Antwerp, Flanders, lies the charming city of Mechelen. Known for its rich history and cultural heritage, this small city packs a big punch when it comes to tourist attractions. Mechelen is often overlooked by visitors to Belgium who prefer the more popular destinations of Brussels, Bruges, and Ghent, which makes it the perfect destination for travelers seeking a more authentic experience.

Mechelen has a compact city center, which makes exploring the city on foot an attractive option. The city is brimming with excellent restaurants, trendy cafes, and boutique shops. With its picturesque canals and charming cobblestone streets, Mechelen is a must-visit destination that is perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families alike.

List of Places to Visit in Mechelen

Mechelen has plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained no matter their interests. Here are some of the top places to visit in Mechelen:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

St. Rumbold’s Cathedral

St. Rumbold’s Cathedral is the most famous landmark in Mechelen and stands tall in the city’s skyline. The site dates back to the 13th century and features stunning Gothic architecture. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower and enjoy breathtaking views of the city.

Palace of Margaret of Austria

The Palace of Margaret of Austria is a stunning Renaissance palace that dates back to the 16th century. Well-known for its lavish interiors, this palace is a sight to behold. Visitors can explore its galleries, halls, and grand staircase as well as the stunning gardens.

Kazerne Dossin

Kazerne Dossin is a museum that commemorates the Belgian Jews who were deported to concentration camps during World War II. It is an emotional and educational experience that is highly recommended.

Natural Attractions of Mechelen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Vrijbroek Park

Vrijbroek Park is a beautiful green space in Mechelen that is perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. This park features beautiful gardens, ponds, and walking trails. It also hosts a variety of events throughout the year.

Het Mechels Broek

Het Mechels Broek is a nature reserve that is perfect for birdwatching and nature lovers. Visitors can explore the marshes and observe the wide variety of birds that call the area home.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mechelen

Mechelen is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the area:

Mechelen City Hike

This hike is a 7km loop that takes visitors through the city’s historic center, along its canals, and through its parks and gardens. It is the perfect way to explore the city and see all the top attractions.

Mechelen to Walem Hike

This hike is a 10km round trip that takes visitors through the countryside outside of Mechelen. Highlights of the hike include the St. John Nepomuk Chapel and the Walem Castle.

Best Things to Do in Mechelen: Activities and Tours

Brewery Het Anker

Brewery Het Anker is a must-visit for beer lovers. Visitors can take a tour of the brewery and learn about the beer-making process. They can also enjoy a tasting of the award-winning Gouden Carolus beer.

Boat Tour

One of the best ways to see Mechelen is from the water. Several boat companies offer guided tours of the city’s canals, providing visitors with a unique perspective of this charming city.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mechelen

For those planning to spend a week in Mechelen, here is a sample itinerary:

Day 1 - Explore the historic city center and visit St. Rumbold’s Cathedral and the Palace of Margaret of Austria.

Day 2 - Take a hike through Vrijbroek Park and explore the Mechelen toy museum.

Day 3 - Visit Kazerne Dossin and spend the afternoon at the Tivoli Amusement Park.

Day 4 - Take a boat tour of the city’s canals and enjoy a beer tasting at Brewery Het Anker.

Day 5 - Spend the day outside of Mechelen, exploring the countryside on the Mechelen to Walem hike.

Day 6 - Visit Het Mechels Broek nature reserve and relax in the serene atmosphere.

Day 7 - Spend the day shopping and enjoying the restaurants and cafes of Mechelen.

Food and Drink Scene of Mechelen

Must-Try Dishes

Mechelse Koekoek

Mechelse Koekoek is a traditional Belgian dish that consists of a roasted chicken with a creamy mushroom sauce. It is a must-try dish when visiting Mechelen.

Gouden Carolus Beer

Gouden Carolus Beer is a local beer that is brewed on-site at Brewery Het Anker. It is a must-try for beer lovers.

Local Beverages

Jenever

Jenever is a traditional Belgian liquor that is similar to gin. It is often served as an aperitif or as a digestif.

De Koninck

De Koninck is a local beer that is popular throughout the region. It has a distinctive taste and is a must-try for beer enthusiasts.

Where to Stay in Mechelen: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Mechelen has a wide range of accommodation options. Here are a few recommendations:

Hotel Mercure Mechelen Vé

Hotel Mercure Mechelen Vé is a stylish hotel that is located in the historic center of Mechelen. It features modern amenities and spacious rooms.

Hostel Mechelen

Hostel Mechelen is a budget-friendly option that offers a variety of rooms, including dormitories and private rooms. It is located in the heart of the city and is perfect for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers.

What to Buy in Mechelen: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Gouden Carolus Beer

Gouden Carolus Beer is the perfect souvenir for beer lovers. Visitors can purchase bottles of the beer at Brewery Het Anker.

Lace

Mechelen is famous for its lace-making. Visitors can purchase handmade lace products at local markets and shops throughout the city.

Local Culture and Customs of Mechelen

Mechelen has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its architecture, food, and traditions. Visitors should try to embrace the local customs and way of life when visiting the city.

Best Time to Visit Mechelen

The best time to visit Mechelen is in the late spring or early fall when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. July and August can be hot and humid, while the winter months can be chilly and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mechelen

Do:

  • Take a boat tour of the city’s canals.
  • Try the local beer and cuisine.
  • Embrace the local way of life.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the city’s historical significance.
  • Be rude to locals or other tourists.
  • Wear inappropriate clothing when visiting churches and cathedrals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mechelen

Mechelen is generally a safe city, but visitors should take the usual precautions to avoid pickpocketing and other petty crimes.

Health in Mechelen

Belgium has an excellent healthcare system. Visitors should ensure they have appropriate travel insurance before visiting the country.

Getting to Mechelen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mechelen

The closest airport to Mechelen is Brussels Airport, which is located approximately 17km away. Visitors can take a train or taxi from the airport to the city.

Bus Stations Near Mechelen

Mechelen has a well-connected bus network that allows visitors to easily explore the city and its surroundings.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a train or hire a car to reach Mechelen.

How to Get Around in Mechelen

Mechelen is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot. Visitors can also take advantage of the city’s bike share program or use the public bus system to get around.

Where to Go Next from Mechelen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several popular destinations near Mechelen that are worth exploring. Some of the top options include Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent.

Conclusion

Mechelen is a fascinating city that is often overlooked by visitors to Belgium. With its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and beautiful natural surroundings, Mechelen has something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, Mechelen is a destination that should not be missed.

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